Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Gas Monitor • Mine Automation • Mine Surveying

Drift Mining

Term from Coal Mining industry explained for recruiters

Drift mining is a method of accessing coal or minerals by creating nearly horizontal tunnels from the side of a hill or mountain. It's different from other mining types because miners can often walk straight into the mine, rather than going down a deep shaft. Think of it like entering a cave in the side of a hill. This approach is commonly used when coal seams are located in hilly or mountainous areas. It's generally considered more cost-effective and safer than some other mining methods because it doesn't require expensive lifting equipment and provides natural drainage.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised Drift Mining operations extracting 50,000 tons of coal annually

Led safety inspections for Drift Mine entrance and support systems

Managed ventilation systems in Drift Mining operations

Coordinated equipment maintenance for Drift Mine extraction

Typical job title: "Drift Miners"

Also try searching for:

Mine Worker Underground Miner Coal Miner Mining Operator Mine Technician Mining Supervisor Mine Safety Specialist

Where to Find Drift Miners

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Industry Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you plan a new drift mining operation?

Expected Answer: Should discuss site assessment, safety considerations, ventilation planning, equipment needs, workforce requirements, and environmental impact studies. Should mention experience with regulatory compliance and cost analysis.

Q: What steps would you take to improve safety in a drift mining operation?

Expected Answer: Should explain regular inspection routines, ventilation monitoring, ground support systems, emergency procedures, and training programs. Should demonstrate knowledge of mining regulations and best practices.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the main challenges in drift mining ventilation?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic ventilation principles, common problems with air flow, monitoring systems, and solutions for maintaining good air quality in horizontal tunnels.

Q: How do you handle water drainage in drift mining?

Expected Answer: Should describe natural drainage advantages of drift mines, water management systems, pump placement, and maintaining proper tunnel gradient.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic safety equipment is required in drift mining?

Expected Answer: Should list personal protective equipment like hard hats, safety boots, respirators, and explain basic safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Q: What is the difference between drift mining and shaft mining?

Expected Answer: Should explain that drift mining involves horizontal or near-horizontal tunnels from hillsides, while shaft mining requires vertical tunnels from the surface.